4 Summer Activities to Enjoy Outside of Montreal

Summertime is the time to enjoy Montreal is its prime, but sometimes it’s nice to escape the influx of tourists, crowded sidewalks and densely populated festivals (don’t even get us started on traffic). So with construction at its peak and the rise of sweltering high temperatures, getting out of the city does your mind-body and soul some good. Summer activities are just as plentiful beyond the isle of the 514 as they are within, but which to choose?

Whether you’re in need of some R&R at the spa, craving a frolic in the lavender fields or just looking to treat your palette to some of the region’s fine wines, there’s something for everyone less than an hour away (not including traffic, of course).

Maison Lavande – Fragrant Summer Activities in the Sunshine!

If you didn’t know, there are luscious fields of lavender a short drive away from the island of Montreal. Maison Lavande in Saint-Eustache is the perfect getaway with fragrant relaxing notes that will carry you away to a place where you actually have zero f*$%s to give.

Lavender, as we know, is used for everything from spa treatments to cooking. It even helps to relieve headaches, insomnia, and anxiety

Also, it’s a great place for an impromptu photo shoot – just ask Nudabite friend, Kristina Spino!

Save a cowboy, ride a tractor…?

Wine Tasting with Coureur des Bois

If you find yourself curious to experience a local menu paired with French wines, why not take your summer activities in the direction of the south shore? We recommend checking out the Coureur des Bois Bistro Culinaire to sample a variety wines from Bourgogne Aligoté line, grown and produced in the Bourgogne region of France.

The decadent menu, excellent wine selection and elegant decor are perfect for a romantic night out, or a soiree spent among friends. Fun fact: the Coureur des Bois Bistro is home to the 3rd the largest wine cellar in Canada. We’ll just leave that there.

Spa Balnea Ete des Chefs

Spa retreat and foodie haven Été des Chefs gourmet food competition is back on at Spa Balnea, and the menu this year is divine! With the perfect pairings and vegetarian options, each weekend will feature a different restaurant from the region. While most of the restaurants are from Montreal, there are a couple from Quebec not to be missed!

Oh, there WILL be ice cream.

Typically, a visit to the spa includes massages, water therapy circuit with the hot-cold-rest cycle and catching a few rays. Spa Balnea has all of this plus a gorgeous lake with SUP and rafts that take your getaway and chill to new heights. For the 10th year, the spa is running their Ete des Chefs summer food event, which means that for 10 Sundays there will be a different chef, restaurant and menu featured.

Discover Boating

Boating is one of those summer activities that happens to be a luxury. If you are however on the hunt for a rental or purchase opportunity, we suggest checking out Discover Boating Canada, right here in Montreal’s Old Port!

While this is in Montreal, the idea is to get out and off the island. For those with a license – all aboard!